University of Illinois Fighting Illini Mens Basketball

Frequently Asked Questions

What channel is the Iowa-Illinois game on tonight?

The Iowa-Illinois game tonight will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network (BTN), the official television home for Big Ten Conference basketball games. Check your local cable or satellite provider for BTN channel listings, or stream the game live through the FOX Sports app or Big Ten Network Plus with a valid subscription. Tip-off times and broadcast information can occasionally change, so it's recommended to visit the official Fighting Illini athletics website or the Big Ten Network schedule for the most up-to-date details. For fans who prefer streaming, services like Hulu Live, YouTube TV, and fuboTV also carry BTN in select packages. Don't miss this exciting Big Ten rivalry matchup

Has Illinois ever been to the final four?

Yes, the Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball team has made multiple appearances in the NCAA Final Four. Most notably, Illinois reached the national championship game in 2005 after advancing to the Final Four by defeating Louisville in the semifinals. The 2004-2005 team, led by stars like Deron Williams, Luther Head, and Dee Brown, finished as national runners-up after a thrilling season. Prior to that, Illinois also made Final Four trips in 1949 and 1952. The program is renowned for its rich basketball tradition and has consistently been a contender in the NCAA Tournament, earning respect for its passionate fan base and competitive teams. The Fighting Illini's Final Four runs remain a proud part of Illinois basketball history and continue to inspire new generations of players and supporters.

How much do Illinois basketball players get paid?

Illinois basketball players, like other NCAA student-athletes, do not receive traditional salaries for playing. However, thanks to recent changes in Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations, Fighting Illini players are now able to earn compensation through endorsements, sponsorships, social media promotions, and other business ventures related to their personal brands. The amounts earned vary widely based on player popularity, position, and marketability, but top college basketball players can potentially make thousands to even hundreds of thousands of dollars annually through NIL deals. The University of Illinois supports athletes with resources to maximize their NIL opportunities while maintaining eligibility. While these earnings aren't standardized salaries, NIL has significantly changed the financial landscape for college basketball players at Illinois and across the NCAA.

Did any Illinois basketball players get drafted?

Yes, several Illinois Fighting Illini basketball players have been drafted into the NBA over the years. Notable recent draftees include Ayo Dosunmu, who was selected by the Chicago Bulls in the 2021 NBA Draft, and Meyers Leonard, picked by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2012 NBA Draft. Other prominent Illini NBA draftees include Deron Williams (3rd overall in 2005), Luther Head, Dee Brown, and Kendall Gill. The program has a strong track record of developing talent that succeeds at the professional level, and many former Illinois players have enjoyed productive NBA careers. The consistent presence of Illini alumni in the draft highlights the program's reputation for preparing athletes for the next level of basketball competition.

Where can I buy Illinois basketball tickets?

You can buy Illinois basketball tickets easily and securely through Gigfomo, a trusted ticket marketplace for college basketball fans. Simply visit the Gigfomo website, search for "Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball,"